Marzocca

Marzocca, sometimes also referred to as Marzocca Marina, is a seaside frazione (outlying hamlet) of Senigallia. Sprawling along the Adriatric Coast, the beaches are a mix of sand and stones, and is a popular summer spot for swimming in clear water.

Previously, the town was inhabited by fishermen and shepherds who took their sheep to the fields that were just beyond the town center. Later, the rain line and then the autostrade were places along the coastal plain, and the shepherds moved further into the hills, while the fishermen moved to Senigallia with its port/marina.

The town of Marzocca has about 3,400 residents, but swells to twice or triple that in summer -especially in August. The good thing is that there are about four kilometers of seafront, some of it is free and open and uncrowded, especially if you go to the south of town where rocks may be a barrier but beyond them you'll find narrow strips of sand or pebbles, with easy parking. To the north are also long stretches of pebble beach backed by cedar trees.

Marzocca is sort of split in half, thanks to the rail line, so there is the seaside, and then there is the sprawled-out town areas on the other side of the tracks. Rather modern, there are services, shops, cafes and restaurants, and while many apartments are used as summer getaways, just as many are inhabited by people who commute to nerby Senigallia.

There are some restaurants open year-round, unlike some other seaside areas; naturally, more are open from May through October. There are free beaches and concessions that offer services (we give you information on that in a separate listing.)

Senigallia with its "city life" and its beautiful "Rotonda al Mare" landmark circular building on a pier, Piazza Garibaldi, Teatro La Fenice opera house, ducal palace and castle are things to see and do. Hill towns of Mondolfo, Corinaldo, Morro d'Alba, and Fossombrone as well as Arcevia and the Frasassi caverns are all worthy day trips, but there are many towns and beautiful scenery in the hills and along the coast to explore and discover.